On May 10, Three Rivers Youth (TRY) took more than 300 on “The Grand Tour of Italy.” Each year TRY selects a unique theme for their Nellie Leadership Awards Gala. On this beautiful evening, at the Carnegie Museum in the music hall and foyer, guests enjoyed a red carpet welcome with paparazzi extraordinaire Ahmad Sandidge. At the conclusion of the evening each person was able to take a beautiful photo home as a souvenir.

Guests dined on Italian meats and cheeses, fettuccine alla carbonara, shots of minestrone soup with roasted garlic croustade and roasted asparagus. Domodimonti Wineries hosted a wine tasting while Dr. Margaret and Dr. Chenits Pettigrew served as honorary co-chairs. Many came to support TRY however, a few commented they like to attend these grand events to see what president and CEO Peggy Harris will wear.

The centerpiece of the evening was “Dancing Under the Italian Stars,” where three contestants competed for votes. The Urban Ballroom Dancers, The Pittsburgh Soul Steppers and Marlon & Camille’s Salsa burned up the stage. UBD took first place. TRY also honored community leaders: Esther Bush, Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh (Education); Dr. Karen Wolk Feinstein, Jewish Healthcare Foundation (Healthcare); BNY Mellon (Community Engagement); and Mt. Lebanon High School (Advocacy). Each was presented with a beautiful piece of art by Saihou Njie.